Unprecedented times, two words often used to describe the current health crisis. Indeed, newcomers at AUI are starting their classes while facing issues resulting from the coronavirus. To illustrate, they witnessed delays in Baccalaureate exams and standardized tests, shifts to online learning, and changes in daily routines due to the lockdown. They had to make important life decisions in times where only fear and stress dominated the scene.
The university made sure to prepare their arrival in such optimal conditions to allow them to live the AUI experience regardless of the pandemic challenges. Starting Monday, newcomers and their families began to join the campus in order to register and attend orientation activities assisted by several student volunteers, mentors, and ambassadors, ensuring a successful orientation week.
Embarking on a new academic journey during a pandemic is surely unique. Therefore, I decided to interview a new student, Ayman Alaoui, a future GE student, in an attempt to view the experience from his own lenses.
Like any other Moroccan student, Aymane had to witness major changes due to the pandemic. He was shocked at first when the Ministry of Education decided to close all schools in Morocco. He had to adapt quickly and keep up with his teachers despite the various challenges of the e-learning experience. He admits that it was hard and difficult to continue studying in such coniditions. He was stressed and irritated all the time due to the uncertainty of the BAC exam.
As seniors in high school, surviving quarantine was hard for us at least it was for me because we weren’t resting and we were constantly in stress
In fact, Aymane never thought of becoming an AUIer before. The decision came until he went to the Moroccan Student Forum in which the university was participating. He believed that AUI was an elite university; however, thanks to a student ambassador who explained to him the scholarship and application process, he decided to apply.
Aymane makes academic decisions based on the quality of the programs offered by universities. Accordingly, he decided to pursue a bachelor in General Engineering due to its vast possibilities and doors it could open for grad school. While applying, the new AUIer found himself challenged because he had to gather many papers and fill various forms on his own. With the assistance of his father, he was able to submit his application successfully.
The application process makes you feel sort of ”independent”
While attending one of his “zoom” classes, Aymane received his admission email stating that he was granted a spot at AUI without an interview. However, his parents took it lightly since the decision regarding the scholarship was not sent yet.
I was attending a zoom class, bored until I received a notification on my phone. It was AUI’s official admission email
Excited to join AUI, he started to prepare his arrival by taking the PCR test two days before orientation, respecting the deadlines set by the administration. He packed everything needed for his new dorm room such as kitchen utensils, hygiene products, masks, food, etc. Having many expectations for his university experience, he sees himself joining clubs and student organizations since he is intending to work on his social skills. He is also willing to enjoy the multi-cultural and diverse setting that AUI offers to its students, allowing him to grow as a person.
I would also like to succeed academically in order to not lose my scholarship
When seeing new students joining AUI, one cannot fail to notice the similarities and reminisce about when we first set our foot in the university. Just like our old freshman self, Aymane is eager to learn and embark on his AUI journey.
such a beautiful article, Good job Hiba and Aymane!